2018 NFL Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year

30. Mike Hughes, CB, Minnesota Vikings

2018 Stats: 22 total tackles, 1 INT, 3 passes defended, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovered, 1 TD

Overall, Mike Hughes was solid in his short appearance for the Minnesota Vikings this season. They drafted him to be a playmaker in coverage and the return game, and he didn’t wait long to show them that he’s capable of living up to those expectations.

Unfortunately, a torn ACL limited him to only six games (two starts) on the year. It was a tough blow for a young cornerback who appeared to be picking things up quickly. I mean, the kid did come up with a pick-six in his first NFL appearance. Not too shabby of a start, if you ask me.

Although his opportunities were minimal, Hughes did also give us glimpses of his potential as a returner. He racked up 46 yards on one of his four kick returns, averaging 26.8 per return across that small sample of work. The important part of his rookie campaign, though, was that he looked more than capable as a cornerback.

Especially with Trae Waynes’ future looking uncertain, the Vikings are going to need more options at cornerback in 2019. With Hughes set to return from injury, my guess is he’ll slot in across from Xavier Rhodes with Mackensie Alexander manning the slot. Based on what we saw during those six appearances, Hughes brings serious potential as a breakout candidate next season.

Grade: B